Colombian Lower House Approves Labor Reform
Woman holding a copy of the “Work for Change” reform proposal. X/ @gloobil
October 18, 2024 Hour: 6:29 am
‘We are one step closer to building a fair labor system focused on protecting workers’ rights,’ President Petro stated.
On Thursday, the Colombian House of Representatives approved the labor reform bill presented by President Gustavo Petro and sent it to the Senate, where the proposal must be approved in two debates.
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“Great news! The House of Representatives approved the Labor Reform. We are one step closer to building a fair labor system focused on protecting workers’ rights,” Petro wrote on his X account.
The legislative proposal was approved with 93 votes in favor and 13 against, and it must now overcome the hurdle of the Senate’s Commission VI and the Senate floor, where the Petro administration does not have a majority, and where other reforms, such as the healthcare proposal, have failed.
“It’s important to note that we started with 80 articles, six of which were eliminated, but eight new articles were added,” said Labor Minister Gloria Ramirez.
Among the articles in this bill are the extension of night shift pay, guarantees for union rights, increased paternity leave, and the regulation of digital platform work.
However, opposition lawmakers did not approve other articles aimed at ensuring that rural workers receive at least a minimum wage or securing compensation for dismissal without just cause.
“I don’t understand how someone earning US$11,300 a month wouldn’t want a laborer to earn a minimum wage. This is why we are one of the most unequal and violent countries in the world,” Petro said, referring to members of the Lower House.
teleSUR/ JF Source: EFE
